[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 170 (Tuesday, September 5, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 41878-41883]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-18396]



[[Page 41878]]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2016-9521; Product Identifier 2016-NM-061-AD; Amendment 
39-19018; AD 2017-18-09]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Defense and Space S.A. (Formerly 
Known as Construcciones Aeronauticas, S.A.) Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of 
Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
Airbus Defense and Space S.A. Model CN-235, CN-235-100, CN-235-200, CN-
235-300, and C-295 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of 
excessive play between bushings and their respective fitting housings 
at certain elevator fittings. This AD requires a one-time detailed 
inspection and repetitive eddy current inspections of the elevator 
hinge fitting and bracket assembly, and corrective actions if 
necessary. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on 
these products.

DATES: This AD is effective October 10, 2017.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of October 10, 
2017.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Airbus Defense and Space, Services/Engineering Support, Avenida 
de Arag[oacute]n 404, 28022 Madrid, Spain; fax +34 91 585 31 27; email 
[email protected]. You may view this referenced service 
information at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 1601 Lind Avenue 
SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material 
at the FAA, call 425-227-1221. It is also available on the Internet at 
http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. 
FAA-2016-9521.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-
9521; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket 
contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and 
other information. The street address for the Docket Office (telephone 
800-647-5527) is Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of 
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace 
Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 1601 
Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone: 425-227-1112; fax: 
425-227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Airbus Defense and 
Space S.A. Model CN-235, CN-235-100, CN-235-200, CN-235-300, and C-295 
airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on January 5, 
2017 (82 FR 1269) (``the NPRM''). The NPRM was prompted by reports of 
excessive play between bushings and their respective fitting housings 
at certain elevator fittings. The NPRM proposed to require a one-time 
detailed inspection and repetitive eddy current inspections of the 
elevator hinge fitting and bracket assembly, and corrective actions if 
necessary. We are issuing this AD to prevent excessive play between 
bushings and their respective fitting housings, which could lead to 
failure or detachment of any of the affected structural parts, with a 
possible result of reduced control of the airplane.
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 
2016-0075, dated April 19, 2016 (referred to after this as the 
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to 
correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Defense and Space S.A. Model 
CN-235, CN-235-100, CN-235-200, CN-235-300, and C-295 airplanes. The 
MCAI states:

    Excessive play between bushings and their respective fitting 
housing was reported at Stabilizer Station (STA) 4850, affecting the 
outboard and inboard elevator hinge fittings and attachment 
fittings; and the horizontal stabilizer elevator linkage. 
Additionally, excessive misalignment was detected between the 
elevator hinge fittings and the elevator brackets during further 
analysis of the reported cases. Furthermore, an occurrence of an 
elevator hinge fitting crack was reported.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to 
failure or detachment of any of the affected structural parts, 
possibly resulting in reduced control of the aeroplane.
    To address this potentially unsafe condition, Airbus Defence & 
Space (D&S) issued Alert Operator Transmissions (AOT) AOT-CN235-55-
0001 Revision 2 and AOT-C295-55-0001 Revision 2 to provide 
inspection instructions to detect misalignment between the elevator 
hinge fittings and the elevator brackets. Additionally, Airbus D&S 
issued AOT-CN235-55-0003 and AOT-C295-55-0003 to provide inspection 
instructions to detect cracking of elevator hinge fitting and 
attachment fitting.
    For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires a one-
time [detailed] inspection of the elevator hinge fittings and the 
elevator brackets, repetitive [eddy current] inspections of elevator 
hinge fittings and attachment fittings, and depending on findings, 
accomplishment of applicable corrective action(s) [e.g. repair(s)].

    You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-
9521.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. We received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of 
the cost to the public.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety and 
the public interest require adopting this AD as proposed, except for 
minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:
     Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Airbus Defense and Space S.A. has issued the following Alert 
Operators Transmissions (AOT).
     Airbus Defense and Space S.A. AOT AOT-CN235-55-0001, 
Revision 2, dated March 10, 2015. The service information describes 
procedures for a detailed visual inspection of the elevator hinge 
fitting and bracket assembly to detect excessive play between bushings 
and their respective fitting housings, and to detect cracks; and 
corrective actions if necessary.
     Airbus Defense and Space S.A. AOT AOT-CN235-55-0003, dated 
December 22, 2015. The service

[[Page 41879]]

information describes procedures for repetitive eddy current 
inspections to detect cracks in the elevator hinge fitting and bracket 
assembly, and corrective actions if necessary.
     Airbus Defense and Space S.A. AOT AOT-C295-55-0001, 
Revision 2, dated April 9, 2015. The service information describes 
procedures for a detailed visual inspection of the elevator hinge 
fitting and bracket assembly to detect excessive play between bushings 
and their respective fitting housings, and to detect cracks; and 
corrective actions if necessary.
     Airbus Defense and Space S.A. AOT AOT-C295-55-0003, dated 
December 22, 2015. The service information describes procedures for 
repetitive eddy current inspections to detect cracks in the elevator 
hinge fitting and bracket assembly, and corrective actions if 
necessary.
    These documents are distinct since they apply to different airplane 
models in different configurations. This service information is 
reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it 
through their normal course of business or by the means identified in 
the ADDRESSES section.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 14 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                Cost on U.S.
              Action                     Labor cost       Parts cost    Cost per product          operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection........................  2 work-hours x $85           $0   $170 per inspection   $2,380 per
                                     per hour = $170 per               cycle.                inspection cycle.
                                     inspection cycle.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We estimate the following costs to do any necessary repairs that 
will be required based on the results of the inspection. We have no way 
of determining the number of airplanes that might need this repair:

                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Cost per
                    Action                                Labor cost               Parts cost        product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Repair.......................................  45 work-hours x $85 per hour =          $10,000          $13,825
                                                $3,825.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation 
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's 
authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.
    This AD is issued in accordance with authority delegated by the 
Executive Director, Aircraft Certification Service, as authorized by 
FAA Order 8000.51C. In accordance with that order, issuance of ADs is 
normally a function of the Compliance and Airworthiness Division, but 
during this transition period, the Executive Director has delegated the 
authority to issue ADs applicable to transport category airplanes to 
the Director of the System Oversight Division.

Regulatory Findings

    We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications 
under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct 
effect on the States, on the relationship between the national 
government and the States, or on the distribution of power and 
responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
    3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and
    4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

Adoption of the Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness 
directive (AD):

2017-18-09 Airbus Defense and Space S.A. (Formerly Known as 
Construcciones Aeronauticas, S.A.): Amendment 39-19018; Docket No. 
FAA-2016-9521; Product Identifier 2016-NM-061-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective October 10, 2017.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Defense and Space S.A. (formerly known 
as Construcciones Aeronauticas, S.A.) Model CN-235, CN-235-100, CN-
235-200, CN-235-300, and C-295 airplanes, certificated in any 
category, all manufacturer serial numbers.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 55, Stabilizers.

[[Page 41880]]

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by reports of excessive play between 
bushings and their respective fitting housings at certain elevator 
fittings. We are issuing this AD to prevent excessive play between 
bushings and their respective fitting housings, which could lead to 
failure or detachment of any of the affected structural parts, with 
a possible result of reduced control of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(g) One-Time Detailed Visual Inspection

    Before exceeding 600 flight hours since first flight of the 
airplane, or within 300 flight hours after the effective date of 
this AD, whichever occurs later, but not before exceeding 300 flight 
hours since first flight of the airplane: Do a detailed visual 
inspection of the elevator hinge fitting and bracket assembly to 
detect excessive play between bushings and their respective fitting 
housings, and to detect cracks, in accordance with the instructions 
of Airbus Defense and Space S.A. Alert Operators Transmission (AOT) 
AOT-CN235-55-0001, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2015; or AOT AOT-
C295-55-0001, Revision 2, dated April 9, 2015; as applicable.

(h) Corrective Action for Discrepancies Found During Detailed Visual 
Inspection

    If, during the inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD, 
any discrepancy is detected, as defined in the instructions of 
Airbus Defense and Space S.A. AOT AOT-CN235-55-0001, Revision 2, 
dated March 10, 2015; or AOT AOT-C295-55-0001 Revision 2, dated 
April 9, 2015; as applicable: Before further flight, accomplish 
applicable corrective actions, in accordance with the instructions 
of Airbus Defense and Space S.A. AOT AOT-CN235-55-0001, Revision 2, 
dated March 10, 2015; or AOT AOT-C295-55-0001, Revision 2, dated 
April 9, 2015; as applicable. Where Airbus Defense and Space S.A. 
AOT AOT-CN235-55-0001, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2015; or AOT AOT-
C295-55-0001 Revision 2, dated April 9, 2015; specifies to contact 
Airbus Defense and Space S.A. for corrective actions, before further 
flight, accomplish corrective actions in accordance with the 
procedures specified in paragraph (n)(2) of this AD.

(i) Repetitive Eddy Current Inspections--Model CN-235, CN-235-100, CN-
235-200, and CN-235-300 Airplanes

    For Model CN-235, CN-235-100, CN-235-200, and CN-235-300 
airplanes: Do the actions required by paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) 
of this AD.
    (1) Within the applicable compliance time specified in table 1 
to paragraph (i)(1) of this AD: Do an eddy current inspection to 
detect cracks in the elevator hinge fitting and bracket assembly, in 
accordance with the instructions of Airbus Defense and Space S.A. 
AOT AOT-CN235-55-0003, dated December 22, 2015.

 Table 1 to Paragraph (i)(1) of This AD--Initial Compliance Times for Model CN-235, CN-235-100, CN-235-200, and
                                              CN-235-300 Airplanes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Manufacturer's Serial No.             Elevator hinge fitting       Compliance time for initial eddy current
                                                                                   inspection
(MSN)                                             (part No.)               (whichever occurs later)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MSN001 through MSN154 inclusive....            35-31193-0201  Before exceeding 8,800       Within 300 flight
                                               35-31193-0202   flight cycles since first    cycles after the
                                                               flight of the airplane; or   effective date of
                                                               before exceeding the         this AD.
                                                               applicable flight hours
                                                               since first flight of the
                                                               airplane as calculated in
                                                               table 2 to paragraph
                                                               (i)(1) of this AD;
                                                               whichever occurs first.
MSN155 through MSN241 inclusive....            35-31193-0501  Before exceeding 3,600       Within 300 flight
                                               35-31193-0502   flight cycles since first    cycles after the
                                                               flight of the airplane; or   effective date of
                                                               before exceeding the         this AD.
                                                               applicable flight hours
                                                               since first flight of the
                                                               airplane as calculated in
                                                               table 2 to paragraph
                                                               (i)(1) of this AD;
                                                               whichever occurs first.
MSN242 through MSN999 inclusive....            35-31193-0503  Before exceeding 1,000       Within 50 flight
                                               35-31193-0504   flight cycles since first    cycles after the
                                                               flight of the airplane; or   effective date of
                                                               before exceeding the         this AD.
                                                               applicable flight hours
                                                               since first flight of the
                                                               airplane as calculated in
                                                               table 2 to paragraph
                                                               (i)(1) of this AD;
                                                               whichever occurs first.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


  Table 2 to Paragraph (i)(1) of This AD--Flight Cycles to Flight Hours
              Conversion Since First Flight of the Airplane
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   Civilian or        Flight cycles to
     CN-235 Model/version         military type         flight hours
                                   certificate           conversion
------------------------------------------------------------------------
CN-235 (Commercial              Civilian.........  Flight hours since
 Identification S10).                               first flight of the
                                                    airplane = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 1
                                                    to paragraph (i)(1)
                                                    of this AD x 0.861.
CN-235-100....................  Civilian.........  Flight hours since
                                                    first flight of the
                                                    airplane = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 1
                                                    to paragraph (i)(1)
                                                    of this AD x 0.861.
CN-235-200....................  Civilian.........  Flight hours since
                                                    first flight of the
                                                    airplane = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 1
                                                    to paragraph (i)(1)
                                                    of this AD x 0.806.
CN-235-300....................  Civilian.........  Flight hours since
                                                    first flight of the
                                                    airplane = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 1
                                                    to paragraph (i)(1)
                                                    of this AD x 0.861.
CN-235 (Commercial              Military.........  Flight hours since
 Identification S10M).                              first flight of the
                                                    airplane = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 1
                                                    to paragraph (i)(1)
                                                    of this AD x 0.861.
CN-235-100M...................  Military.........  Flight hours since
                                                    first flight of the
                                                    airplane = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 1
                                                    to paragraph (i)(1)
                                                    of this AD x 2.222.
CN-235-200M...................  Military.........  Flight hours since
                                                    first flight of the
                                                    airplane = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 1
                                                    to paragraph (i)(1)
                                                    of this AD x 2.222.
CN-235-300M...................  Military.........  Flight hours since
                                                    first flight of the
                                                    airplane = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 1
                                                    to paragraph (i)(1)
                                                    of this AD x 2.167.
CN-235-100M/IR01..............  Military.........  Flight hours since
                                                    first flight of the
                                                    airplane = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 1
                                                    to paragraph (i)(1)
                                                    of this AD x 1.389.
CN-235-100M/EA02V.............  Military.........  Flight hours since
                                                    first flight of the
                                                    airplane = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 1
                                                    to paragraph (i)(1)
                                                    of this AD x 1.389.

[[Page 41881]]

 
CN-235-200M/CL02..............  Military.........  Flight hours since
                                                    first flight of the
                                                    airplane = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 1
                                                    to paragraph (i)(1)
                                                    of this AD x 1.389.
CN-235/EA01F (Commercial        Military.........  Flight hours since
 Identification S10M).                              first flight of the
                                                    airplane = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 1
                                                    to paragraph (i)(1)
                                                    of this AD x 0.861.
CN-235-300/SM01...............  Civilian.........  Flight hours since
                                                    first flight of the
                                                    airplane = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 1
                                                    to paragraph (i)(1)
                                                    of this AD x 3.125.
CN-235 -300M/CG01, -300M/GC01,  Military.........  Flight hours since
 -300/MM01, -300/CL04.                              first flight of the
                                                    airplane = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 1
                                                    to paragraph (i)(1)
                                                    of this AD x 3.125.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (2) Repeat the eddy current inspection specified in paragraph 
(i)(1) of this AD thereafter within the applicable interval 
specified in table 3 to paragraph (i)(2) of this AD.

 Table 3 to Paragraph (i)(2) of This AD--Repetitive Inspection Intervals
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                     Elevator       Compliance time for
   Manufacturer's serial No.        attachment        repetitive eddy
                                  fitting  (P/N)    current inspections
------------------------------------------------------------------------
MSN001 through MSN154               35-31193-0201  Before exceeding
 inclusive.                         35-31193-0202   1,300 flight cycles
                                                    since the most
                                                    recent inspection;
                                                    or before exceeding
                                                    the applicable
                                                    flight hours since
                                                    the most recent
                                                    inspection as
                                                    calculated in table
                                                    4 to paragraph
                                                    (i)(2) of this AD;
                                                    whichever occurs
                                                    first.
MSN155 through MSN241               35-31193-0501  Before exceeding
 inclusive.                         35-31193-0502   1,000 flight cycles
                                                    since the most
                                                    recent inspection;
                                                    or before exceeding
                                                    the applicable
                                                    flight hours since
                                                    the most recent
                                                    inspection as
                                                    calculated in table
                                                    4 to paragraph
                                                    (i)(2) of this AD;
                                                    whichever occurs
                                                    first.
MSN242 through MSN999               35-31193-0503  Before exceeding
 inclusive.                         35-31193-0504   1,000 flight cycles
                                                    since the most
                                                    recent inspection;
                                                    or before exceeding
                                                    the applicable
                                                    flight hours since
                                                    the most recent
                                                    inspection as
                                                    calculated in table
                                                    4 to paragraph
                                                    (i)(2) of this AD;
                                                    whichever occurs
                                                    first.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


  Table 4 to Paragraph (i)(2) of This AD--Flight Cycles to Flight Hours
                  Conversion for Repetitive Inspections
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   Civilian or        Flight cycles to
     CN-235 Model/version         military type         flight hours
                                   certificate           conversion
------------------------------------------------------------------------
CN-235 (Commercial              Civilian.........  Flight hours since
 Identification S10).                               most recent
                                                    inspection = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 3
                                                    to paragraph (i)(2)
                                                    of this AD x 0.861.
CN-235-100....................  Civilian.........  Flight hours since
                                                    most recent
                                                    inspection = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 3
                                                    to paragraph (i)(2)
                                                    of this AD x 0.861.
CN-235-200....................  Civilian.........  Flight hours since
                                                    most recent
                                                    inspection = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 3
                                                    to paragraph (i)(2)
                                                    of this AD x 0.806.
CN-235-300....................  Civilian.........  Flight hours since
                                                    first flight of the
                                                    airplane = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 3
                                                    to paragraph (i)(2)
                                                    of this AD x 0.861.
CN-235 (Commercial              Military.........  Flight hours since
 Identification S10M).                              most recent
                                                    inspection = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 3
                                                    to paragraph (i)(2)
                                                    of this AD x 0.861.
CN-235-100M...................  Military.........  Flight hours since
                                                    most recent
                                                    inspection = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 3
                                                    to paragraph (i)(2)
                                                    of this AD x 2.222.
CN-235-200M...................  Military.........  Flight hours since
                                                    most recent
                                                    inspection = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 3
                                                    to paragraph (i)(2)
                                                    of this AD x 2.222.
CN-235-300M...................  Military.........  Flight hours since
                                                    most recent
                                                    inspection = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 3
                                                    to paragraph (i)(2)
                                                    of this AD x 2.167.
CN-235-100M/IR01..............  Military.........  Flight hours since
                                                    most recent
                                                    inspection = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 3
                                                    to paragraph (i)(2)
                                                    of this AD x 1.389.
CN-235-100M/EA02V.............  Military.........  Flight hours since
                                                    most recent
                                                    inspection = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 3
                                                    to paragraph (i)(2)
                                                    of this AD x 1.389.
CN-235-200M/CL02..............  Military.........  Flight hours since
                                                    most recent
                                                    inspection = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 3
                                                    to paragraph (i)(2)
                                                    of this AD x 1.389.
CN-235/EA01F (Commercial        Military.........  Flight hours since
 Identification S10M).                              most recent
                                                    inspection = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 3
                                                    to paragraph (i)(2)
                                                    of this AD x 0.861.
CN-235-300/SM01...............  Civilian.........  Flight hours since
                                                    most recent
                                                    inspection = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 3
                                                    to paragraph (i)(2)
                                                    of this AD x 3.125.
CN-235 -300M/CG01, -300M/GC01,  Military.........  Flight hours since
 -300/MM01, -300/CL04.                              most recent
                                                    inspection = the
                                                    applicable flight
                                                    cycles from table 3
                                                    to paragraph (i)(2)
                                                    of this AD x 3.125.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 41882]]

(j) Repetitive Eddy Current Inspections--Model C-295 Airplanes

    For Model C-295 airplanes: Do the actions required by paragraphs 
(j)(1) and (j)(2) of this AD.
    (1) At the later of the times specified in table 5 to paragraph 
(j)(1) of this AD: Do an eddy current inspection of the elevator 
hinge fitting and attachment fitting to detect cracks, in accordance 
with the instructions of Airbus Defense and Space S.A. AOT AOT-C295-
55-0003, dated December 22, 2015.

           Table 5 to Paragraph (j)(1) of This AD--Initial Compliance Times for Model C-295 Airplanes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C-295 Model/Version              Manufacturer's        Elevator Hinge   Compliance time for initial eddy current
                                  Serial Number.              Fitting                  inspection
                                 (MSN)............      (Part Number)           (whichever occurs later)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C-295M/ EA03(01-10), RJ01 (01-   MSN001 through         95-31193-0501  Since first flight of   Within 300 flight
 02), PO01(01-08), AG01(01-06),   MSN030 inclusive.     95-31193-0502   the airplane: Before    cycles after the
 BR01(01-03).                                                           exceeding 3,600         effective date
                                                                        flight cycles; or       of this AD.
                                                                        before exceeding
                                                                        5,040 flight hours;
                                                                        whichever occurs
                                                                        first.
C-295M (from MSN 031)..........  MSN031 through         95-31193-0503  Since first flight of   Within 50 flight
                                  MSN999 inclusive.     95-31193-0504   the airplane: Before    cycles after the
                                                                        exceeding 1,000         effective date
                                                                        flight cycles; or       of this AD.
                                                                        before exceeding
                                                                        1,400 flight hours;
                                                                        whichever occurs
                                                                        first.
C-295M/FI01, FI02..............  MSN031 through         95-31193-0503  Since first flight of   Within 50 flight
                                  MSN999 inclusive.     95-31193-0504   the airplane: Before    cycles after the
                                                                        exceeding 1,000         effective date
                                                                        flight cycles; or       of this AD.
                                                                        before exceeding
                                                                        1,000 flight hours;
                                                                        whichever occurs
                                                                        first.
C-295M/PG01....................  MSN031 through         95-31193-0503  Since first flight of   Within 50 flight
                                  MSN999 inclusive.     95-31193-0504   the airplane: Before    cycles after the
                                                                        exceeding 1,000         effective date
                                                                        flight cycles; or       of this AD.
                                                                        before exceeding
                                                                        1,400 flight hours;
                                                                        whichever occurs
                                                                        first.
C-295M/PG02, PG03..............  MSN031 through         95-31193-0503  Since first flight of   Within 50 flight
                                  MSN999 inclusive.     95-31193-0504   the airplane: Before    cycles after the
                                                                        exceeding 1,000         effective date
                                                                        flight cycles; or       of this AD.
                                                                        before exceeding
                                                                        1,900 flight hours;
                                                                        whichever occurs
                                                                        first.
C-295M/CH01....................  MSN031 through         95-31193-0503  Since first flight of   Within 50 flight
                                  MSN999 inclusive.     95-31193-0504   the airplane: Before    cycles after the
                                                                        exceeding 1,000         effective date
                                                                        flight cycles; or       of this AD.
                                                                        before exceeding
                                                                        1,200 flight hours;
                                                                        whichever occurs
                                                                        first.
C-295M/CH02, OM03..............  MSN031 through         95-31193-0503  Since first flight of   Within 50 flight
                                  MSN999 inclusive.     95-31193-0504   the airplane: Before    cycles after the
                                                                        exceeding 1,000         effective date
                                                                        flight cycles; or       of this AD.
                                                                        before exceeding
                                                                        1,500 flight hours;
                                                                        whichever occurs
                                                                        first.
C-295MW........................  MSN031 through         95-31193-0503  Since first flight of   Within 50 flight
                                  MSN999 inclusive.     95-31193-0504   the airplane: Before    cycles after the
                                                                        exceeding 1,000         effective date
                                                                        flight cycles; or       of this AD.
                                                                        before exceeding
                                                                        1,400 flight hours;
                                                                        whichever occurs
                                                                        first.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (2) Repeat the eddy current inspection specified in paragraph 
(j)(1) of this AD thereafter within the applicable interval 
specified in table 6 to paragraph (j)(2) of this AD.

        Table 6 to Paragraph (j)(2) of This AD--Repetitive Inspection Intervals for Model C-295 Airplanes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   Elevator hinge        Compliance time for
         C-295 Model/version             Manufacturer's serial     fitting  (part      repetitive eddy current
                                              No.  (MSN)              number)                inspections
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C-295M/ EA03(01-10), RJ01 (01-02),     MSN001 through MSN030         95-31193-0501  Before exceeding 1,000
 PO01(01-08), AG01(01-06), BR01(01-     inclusive.                   95-31193-0502   flight cycles since the
 03).                                                                                most recent inspection; or
                                                                                     before exceeding 1,400
                                                                                     flight hours since the most
                                                                                     recent inspection;
                                                                                     whichever occurs first.
C-295M (from MSN 031)................  MSN031 through MSN999         95-31193-0503  Before exceeding 1,000
                                        inclusive.                   95-31193-0504   flight cycles since the
                                                                                     most recent inspection; or
                                                                                     before exceeding 1,400
                                                                                     flight hours since the most
                                                                                     recent inspection;
                                                                                     whichever occurs first.
C-295M/FI01, FI02....................  MSN031 through MSN999         95-31193-0503  Before exceeding 1,000
                                        inclusive.                   95-31193-0504   flight cycles since the
                                                                                     most recent inspection; or
                                                                                     before exceeding 1,000
                                                                                     flight hours since the most
                                                                                     recent inspection;
                                                                                     whichever occurs first.
C-295M/PG01..........................  MSN031 through MSN999         95-31193-0503  Before exceeding 1,000
                                        inclusive.                   95-31193-0504   flight cycles since the
                                                                                     most recent inspection; or
                                                                                     before exceeding 1,400
                                                                                     flight hours since the most
                                                                                     recent inspection;
                                                                                     whichever occurs first.
C-295M/PG02, PG03....................  MSN031 through MSN999         95-31193-0503  Before exceeding 1,000
                                        inclusive.                   95-31193-0504   flight cycles since the
                                                                                     most recent inspection; or
                                                                                     before exceeding 1,900
                                                                                     flight hours since the most
                                                                                     recent inspection;
                                                                                     whichever occurs first.

[[Page 41883]]

 
C-295M/CH01..........................  MSN031 through MSN999         95-31193-0503  Before exceeding 1,000
                                        inclusive.                   95-31193-0504   flight cycles since the
                                                                                     most recent inspection; or
                                                                                     before exceeding 1,200
                                                                                     flight hours since the most
                                                                                     recent inspection;
                                                                                     whichever occurs first.
C-295M/CH02, OM03....................  MSN031 through MSN999         95-31193-0503  Before exceeding 1,000
                                        inclusive.                   95-31193-0504   flight cycles since the
                                                                                     most recent inspection; or
                                                                                     before exceeding 1,500
                                                                                     flight hours since the most
                                                                                     recent inspection;
                                                                                     whichever occurs first.
C-295MW..............................  MSN031 through MSN999         95-31193-0503  Before exceeding 1,000
                                        inclusive.                   95-31193-0504   flight cycles since the
                                                                                     most recent inspection; or
                                                                                     before exceeding 1,400
                                                                                     flight hours since the most
                                                                                     recent inspection;
                                                                                     whichever occurs first.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(k) Corrective Action for Discrepancies Found During Eddy Current 
Inspection

    If, during any inspection required by paragraph (i)(1), (i)(2), 
(j)(1), or (j)(2) of this AD, any crack is detected, as defined in 
Airbus Defense and Space S.A. AOT AOT-CN235-55-0003, dated December 
22, 2015; or AOT AOT-C295-55-0003, dated December 22, 2015; as 
applicable: Before further flight, accomplish applicable corrective 
actions in accordance with the instructions of Airbus Defense and 
Space S.A. AOT AOT-CN235-55-0003, dated December 22, 2015; or AOT 
AOT-C295-55-0003, dated December 22, 2015; as applicable. Where 
Airbus Defense and Space S.A. AOT AOT-CN235-55-0003, dated December 
22, 2015; or AOT AOT-C295-55-0003, dated December 22, 2015; 
specifies to contact Airbus Defense and Space S.A. for corrective 
actions, before further flight, accomplish corrective actions in 
accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (n)(2) of this 
AD.

(l) Provision Regarding Terminating Action

    Accomplishing corrective actions, as required by paragraph (k) 
of this AD, does not constitute terminating action for the 
repetitive inspections required by paragraphs (i)(2) and (j)(2) of 
this AD, unless explicitly stated in the approved method of 
compliance for the corrective action.

(m) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by 
paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the 
effective date of this AD using Airbus Defense and Space S.A. AOT 
AOT-CN235-55-0001, Revision 1, dated March 6, 2015; or AOT AOT-C295-
55-0001, Revision 1, dated May 29, 2014.

(n) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, has the 
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the 
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, 
send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. Before using any approved 
AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a 
principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards 
district office/certificate holding district office.
    (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD 
to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must be 
accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International 
Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or the European Aviation 
Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus Defense and Space S.A.'s EASA DOA. 
If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized 
signature.

(o) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA AD 2016-0075, dated April 19, 2016, for related 
information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet 
at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket 
No. FAA-2016-9521.
    (2) For more information about this AD, contact Shahram 
Daneshmandi, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport 
Standards Branch, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; 
telephone: 425-227-1112; fax: 425-227-1149.
    (3) Service information identified in this AD that is not 
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in 
paragraphs (p)(3) and (p)(4) of this AD.

(p) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Airbus Defense and Space S.A. Alert Operators Transmission 
(AOT) AOT-CN235-55-0001, Revision 2, dated March 10, 2015.
    (ii) Airbus Defense and Space S.A. AOT AOT-CN235-55-0003, dated 
December 22, 2015.
    (iii) Airbus Defense and Space S.A. AOT AOT-C295-55-0001, 
Revision 2, dated April 9, 2015.
    (iv) Airbus Defense and Space S.A. AOT AOT-C295-55-0003, dated 
December 22, 2015.
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus Defense and Space, Services/Engineering Support, Avenida de 
Arag[oacute]n 404, 28022 Madrid, Spain; fax +34 91 585 31 27; email 
[email protected].
    (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport 
Standards Branch, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information 
on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on August 22, 2017.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-18396 Filed 9-1-17; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P